When an urgent situation arises, such as a sudden toothache, broken tooth, or injury, it can be difficult to determine just how urgent it is. Is this something that needs to be treated today, or can it wait until the next day?
We urge you to give us a call during regular office hours to determine the severity of the situation. After hours or on weekends we recommend that you use the information below to assess the situation, and determine if it is a true dental emergency or if it can wait. When in doubt, contact us.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving severe pain, bleeding, infection, or damage that puts a tooth or your health at risk. The general rule is: if it hurts badly, bleeds heavily, swells, or involves a knocked-out tooth, call right away.
A medical emergency is a situation that threatens the overall health or life of the person, such as uncontrolled bleeding, loss of consciousness, or difficulty breathing.
6 Situations That Call for Same-Day Dental Care
- A Knocked-Out Tooth. The best chance of saving the tooth is within about an hour, so fast action is crucial. Handle the tooth by the crown, rinse gently, and try to reinsert it or keep it in milk or saliva until you reach your dentist’s office.
- Severe or Throbbing Tooth Pain. Pain that disrupts sleep, eating, or daily activities often points to infection or nerve damage. Such situations require prompt treatment to increase the chances of saving the tooth.
- Signs of a Dental Abscess or Infection. Swelling, a pimple-like bump on the gums, bad taste, or fever are common signs of infection in a tooth or gums. Infections should be treated immediately to prevent spread.
- A Cracked, Broken, or Fractured Tooth. In these cases there is a risk of exposed nerves, sharp edges, and bacteria entering the tooth. A painful break is urgent, whereas a small painless chip can usually wait.
- Uncontrolled Bleeding or Soft Tissue Injuries. Cuts to the lips, tongue, cheeks, or gums that don't stop bleeding with pressure should be addressed right away. If you can’t get in contact with your dental office, proceed to the nearest emergency department.
- A Loose or Displaced Adult Tooth. Teeth loosened or pushed out of position by an injury need quick stabilization. The sooner you seek treatment, the better the chances that the tooth can be saved and returned to the proper position.
Dental Problems That Can Usually Wait for a Regular Appointment
The following scenarios are typically not urgent, but should still be evaluated in a timely manner:
- A lost filling or crown with no pain
- A small painless chip
- Mild sensitivity
- A dull ache that responds to over-the-counter pain relief.
We recommend that you still call us in these cases so the team can advise you on whether to come in sooner. Waiting means a matter of days, not weeks or months. Be sure to explain the situation when you contact us so that we can apply the appropriate degree of urgency when scheduling your appointment.
When to Go to the ER Instead
If the situation becomes life-threatening, proceed to the nearest emergency room or call 911, such as:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Rapidly spreading facial swelling
- High fever
- A possible broken jaw
- A head injury.
The ER’s job is to provide the necessary care to stabilize the patient. Your dentist will treat your tooth afterward.
What to Do Before You Reach the Dentist
Follow these steps, in order as appropriate for the situation:
- Call the office right away to describe the problem.
- Rinse with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
- Save any broken tooth pieces; cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum.
- Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, and avoid chewing on the affected side.
These tips can help control symptoms until you are able to receive treatment.
What to Expect at an Emergency Dental Visit
The first step will be a visual exam, followed by digital X-rays to find the cause quickly. Our first priorities are to relieve pain and control infection or bleeding. Possible treatments may include bonding, crowns, root canal therapy, extraction, or a follow-up plan for restorations such as dental implants. Sedation options can be provided for patients who feel anxious. We prioritize emergency appointments with an after-hours contact available for patients. Simply call 817-281-4801 and follow the provided instructions.
Don't Wait It Out: Fast Care Protects Your Smile
We never recommend pushing through pain, swelling, bleeding, and injuries. These are all signals to act quickly and seek professional treatment. Please do not worry about inconveniencing us. At R. Renan Williams, DDS, calling is never a bother; we would rather evaluate an issue early than treat a bigger problem later. Save our office number in your phone before an emergency happens (817-281-4801) so you’re always prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dental Care
How do I know if my dental problem is an emergency?
If you have severe pain, swelling, heavy bleeding, signs of infection, or a knocked-out tooth, treat it as an emergency and call right away.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency after hours?
Call the office; existing patients have access to an after-hours contact. For trouble breathing, swallowing, or major facial trauma, go to the nearest ER.
Can a knocked-out tooth really be saved?
Often, yes, if you see a dentist within about an hour and keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva.
Is a lost filling or crown an emergency?
Not always. If there's no pain, it can usually wait a few days, but call the office to have it evaluated before more damage occurs.
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Keep up with routine exams, treat small problems early, wear a mouthguard for sports, and avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or non-food items.
For three decades, R. Renan Williams, DDS, has offered compassionate family, cosmetic, sedation, and emergency dentistry in North Richland Hills, TX, with a personal, low-volume approach that puts patient comfort first. If you're dealing with dental pain, swelling, or an injury, contact us today so our team can help you get the care you need as quickly as possible.